Plans are in the pipeline for a multi-million pound water main upgrade.

The existing pipe carries water from a treatment works near Burham to customers in Larkfield, Ditton, Leybourne and Aylesford, but it lies within Burham Marshes, where the ground is unstable, and has burst nine times in four years.

South East Water’s delivery manager Chris Love said: “I’m sure that our customers, like us, don’t like seeing water being wasted which is why it’s essential we replace this old water main.

“Not only is there disruption to the local community when this pipeline bursts, but due to its location in marshland it is extremely difficult to access and repair.

“We have spent a long time looking at where we can install a replacement water main which can be easily reached if needed in the future.”

The new route will pass through Leybourne Lakes Country Park, Mill Hall Road and Station Road in Ditton.

The 7km main will cost £6m to lay and work is expected to take six months, starting in September.

Phil Outram is the head ranger for Leybourne Lakes Country Park. He said: “We have been working extremely closely with South East Water for over a year now to ensure their work has as little effect on the wildlife, habitats and the public as possible.

“By carrying out this work in the winter months, the impact will be minimised.”

Mr Love said: “I would like to apologise in advance for any disruption our work may cause and to reassure the public that we will do all we can to complete it as quickly and safely as possible.”

Further details on the project can be found at www.southeastwater.co.uk/mid-kent